Bradford Growth Zone boost for new city centre bistro

Bradford’s new city centre Growth Zone has scored an early success by enabling the opening of a new bistro and bar which will mean the ‘banana’ building in Centenary Square is again fully occupied.

Forsters Bistro & Deli, a 100-seat restaurant and bar, will open for business on Friday, December 7.

It is being opened by bosses at Forster Community College in Captain Street, near Bradford Cathedral, on the back of the success of a college-based bistro which opened in January as part of moves to reduce the college’s reliance on public funding.

The new bistro will use the premises previously occupied by Tulsi restaurant, which closed last year. It will create 16 full-time equivalent jobs and provide work experience and training opportunities for catering students at the college’s chefs’ academy.

General manager of the restaurant will be Marc Philpott, who trained at Harvey Nichols and has worked at the Create restaurant in Leeds. The head chef has been recruited from the four star Devere Oulton Hall hotel, near Leeds.

Alistair Griffin, business services manager at Forster Community College, said it had signed a 15-year lease with Leeds-based property development and investment company Rushbond plc.

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He said: “We are delighted that we are expanding in Bradford city centre. We could have gone to Leeds, but wanted to develop the business in our home city. Help from the new Growth Zone has made this move possible and affordable.”

The £35 million Growth Zone, started this month by Bradford Council and half- funded by the Government, aims to boost skills and stimulate investment by providing rate rebates for job-creating new and existing businesses in a defined city centre area.

Mr Griffin said: “As well as being a commercial operation, the new Forsters Bistro will also enable us to provide work experience opportunities for our trainees at the college academy. There will also be nine apprenticeships at the bistro to which suitable students can aspire “As well as providing a new dining experience for the city, it will also provide hands-on experience for our students, training to boost the career path for some as well as new jobs.”

Bradford Council leader David Green said: “It will enhance the facilities around the City Park and also benefit from our support to boost training and employment.

“It demonstrates that the zone can help people with ideas who want to invest in Bradford and provide support to help bring their vision to fruition.”

What with the hair salon this is the second College opening within the banana.
I would hazard a guess that both get heavily subsisidised rates!

A 15yr lease means nothing if they go out of business within 12 months!

By the way Mr Green, your £35m Growth Zone has not started whilst ever we have a huge hole in the ground!

What with the hair salon this is the second College opening within the banana.
I would hazard a guess that both get heavily subsisidised rates!
A 15yr lease means nothing if they go out of business within 12 months!
By the way Mr Green, your £35m Growth Zone has not started whilst ever we have a huge hole in the ground!Avro

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
This demonstrates nothing.
1 new company and once again the T&amp;A is getting all excited and jumping the gun.

Also getting over-excited by the £35m million figure again.
Something around £10m of it is for demolition/rebuildin
g of the cells and highways improvement works to the Westfield area and £17m is dependant on Westfield starting. It's hardly like they're giving local businesses £35m.

Despite my usual cynicism I'll be giving the bistro a go and good luck to all involved. Shame they had to get implicated in the council's propaganda machine.

[quote][p][bold]Thee Voice of Reason[/bold] wrote:
This demonstrates nothing.
1 new company and once again the T&A is getting all excited and jumping the gun.[/p][/quote]Also getting over-excited by the £35m million figure again.
Something around £10m of it is for demolition/rebuildin
g of the cells and highways improvement works to the Westfield area and £17m is dependant on Westfield starting. It's hardly like they're giving local businesses £35m.
Despite my usual cynicism I'll be giving the bistro a go and good luck to all involved. Shame they had to get implicated in the council's propaganda machine.angry bradfordian

The telegraph does get too excited about the slightest little thing, however this can only be good news for the city. Those who can't see the positives and wish to moan shouldn't bother posting. Your negative drivel isn't welcome here.

The telegraph does get too excited about the slightest little thing, however this can only be good news for the city. Those who can't see the positives and wish to moan shouldn't bother posting. Your negative drivel isn't welcome here.bradfordhope

The T&A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.

The T&A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.Thee Voice of Reason

Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c
ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.

Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c
ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.RollandSmoke

RollandSmoke wrote:
Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c

ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.

It's a bistro staffed by catering students and trainees- it's not like they've opened The Ivy!
If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it.

[quote][p][bold]RollandSmoke[/bold] wrote:
Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c
ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.[/p][/quote]It's a bistro staffed by catering students and trainees- it's not like they've opened The Ivy!
If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it.angry bradfordian

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
The T&amp;A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.

Visitors are up 10k on last year actually. The BBC tried to cover up a peadophile, which is exactly what you'd be saying if it were announced that the BBC were expanding in Bradford.....
If they want to leave Bradford that is fine by me and many others i'm sure.

[quote][p][bold]Thee Voice of Reason[/bold] wrote:
The T&A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.[/p][/quote]Visitors are up 10k on last year actually. The BBC tried to cover up a peadophile, which is exactly what you'd be saying if it were announced that the BBC were expanding in Bradford.....
If they want to leave Bradford that is fine by me and many others i'm sure.bhuna156

RollandSmoke wrote:
Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c

ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.

It's a bistro staffed by catering students and trainees- it's not like they've opened The Ivy!
If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it.

Would they have a viable business model without relying on the reduced labour cost of using catering students and trainees?. Just because they're using cheap labour it doesn't mean the service they provide will be cheap.

[quote][p][bold]angry bradfordian[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]RollandSmoke[/bold] wrote:
Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c
ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.[/p][/quote]It's a bistro staffed by catering students and trainees- it's not like they've opened The Ivy!
If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it.[/p][/quote]Would they have a viable business model without relying on the reduced labour cost of using catering students and trainees?. Just because they're using cheap labour it doesn't mean the service they provide will be cheap.RollandSmoke

RollandSmoke wrote:
Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c

ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.

It's a bistro staffed by catering students and trainees- it's not like they've opened The Ivy!
If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it.

"If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it."
That made me smile as I thought I was told over and over again the City Park and its Fountains would bring people in to help businesses and shops.

[quote][p][bold]angry bradfordian[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]RollandSmoke[/bold] wrote:
Come off it TVOR they've got to report something and it's far easier to report on another bistro opening and reducing the need for the poorer members of the Bradford populous to visit the city park than it is to hold the police/politicians/c
ompanies to account when they fail members of that populous.[/p][/quote]It's a bistro staffed by catering students and trainees- it's not like they've opened The Ivy!
If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it.[/p][/quote]"If anything City Park needs more businesses to attract people with money into it."
That made me smile as I thought I was told over and over again the City Park and its Fountains would bring people in to help businesses and shops.Joedavid

Thee Voice of Reason wrote: The T&amp;A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.

Visitors are up 10k on last year actually. The BBC tried to cover up a peadophile, which is exactly what you'd be saying if it were announced that the BBC were expanding in Bradford..... If they want to leave Bradford that is fine by me and many others i'm sure.

Thats nice but those figures are over 150k down on a couple of years ago.

[quote][p][bold]bhuna156[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Thee Voice of Reason[/bold] wrote: The T&A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.[/p][/quote]Visitors are up 10k on last year actually. The BBC tried to cover up a peadophile, which is exactly what you'd be saying if it were announced that the BBC were expanding in Bradford..... If they want to leave Bradford that is fine by me and many others i'm sure.[/p][/quote]Thats nice but those figures are over 150k down on a couple of years ago.Thee Voice of Reason

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
The T&amp;A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.

Visitors are up 10k on last year actually. The BBC tried to cover up a peadophile, which is exactly what you'd be saying if it were announced that the BBC were expanding in Bradford.....
If they want to leave Bradford that is fine by me and many others i'm sure.

The government (both Labour and Conservative) have conspired to do exactly what you accuse the BBC of. Can we get their politicians out of Bradford?.

[quote][p][bold]bhuna156[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Thee Voice of Reason[/bold] wrote:
The T&A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.[/p][/quote]Visitors are up 10k on last year actually. The BBC tried to cover up a peadophile, which is exactly what you'd be saying if it were announced that the BBC were expanding in Bradford.....
If they want to leave Bradford that is fine by me and many others i'm sure.[/p][/quote]The government (both Labour and Conservative) have conspired to do exactly what you accuse the BBC of. Can we get their politicians out of Bradford?.RollandSmoke

So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon "growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in"

I give it a year max.

So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon "growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in"
I give it a year max.Andy2010

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
This demonstrates nothing.
1 new company and once again the T&amp;A is getting all excited and jumping the gun.

Also getting over-excited by the £35m million figure again.
Something around £10m of it is for demolition/rebuildin

g of the cells and highways improvement works to the Westfield area and £17m is dependant on Westfield starting. It's hardly like they're giving local businesses £35m.

Despite my usual cynicism I'll be giving the bistro a go and good luck to all involved. Shame they had to get implicated in the council's propaganda machine.

Spot on, though £17.6m Westfield money is very dependent on the shopping centre being up and running by the end of 2015 rather than just starting the build to receive the money.

[quote][p][bold]angry bradfordian[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Thee Voice of Reason[/bold] wrote:
This demonstrates nothing.
1 new company and once again the T&A is getting all excited and jumping the gun.[/p][/quote]Also getting over-excited by the £35m million figure again.
Something around £10m of it is for demolition/rebuildin
g of the cells and highways improvement works to the Westfield area and £17m is dependant on Westfield starting. It's hardly like they're giving local businesses £35m.
Despite my usual cynicism I'll be giving the bistro a go and good luck to all involved. Shame they had to get implicated in the council's propaganda machine.[/p][/quote]Spot on, though £17.6m Westfield money is very dependent on the shopping centre being up and running by the end of 2015 rather than just starting the build to receive the money.Avro

Andy2010 wrote:
So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&amp;A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon &quot;growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.

God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up.

Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.

[quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote:
So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon "growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.[/p][/quote]God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up.
Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.Parz

Overall this is good news, I expect it’ll be a nice place to eat and I’m sure I’ll try it out.

There’s a clear strategy taking place to make the area around the mirror pool appear economically successful, in one form or another the college and publicly funded bodies are taking up much of the space. So what we really have is an engineered “success” as I’m sure the college has closed down a unit on Sunbridge Road literally seconds away.

If the strategy is being undertaken as a sincere effort to encourage economic growth along with the Growth Zone funds then it should be welcomed, I just hope these moves aren’t merely a cynical attempt to cover up the fact the City Park and the costs put into that haven’t come close to creating the economic returns that were promised before it was built.

Overall this is good news, I expect it’ll be a nice place to eat and I’m sure I’ll try it out.
There’s a clear strategy taking place to make the area around the mirror pool appear economically successful, in one form or another the college and publicly funded bodies are taking up much of the space. So what we really have is an engineered “success” as I’m sure the college has closed down a unit on Sunbridge Road literally seconds away.
If the strategy is being undertaken as a sincere effort to encourage economic growth along with the Growth Zone funds then it should be welcomed, I just hope these moves aren’t merely a cynical attempt to cover up the fact the City Park and the costs put into that haven’t come close to creating the economic returns that were promised before it was built.Clowny

So an over-funded public organisation which pays its staff over inflated wages, is leaving the city (Yes, I'm on about the BBC,If you didn't know) and your against this happening but a college which is trying to reduce its need to be public funded and to be self funded whilst at the same time training people to help better the country and you slate it. I'd take the latter any day.

Social enterprises like the bistro are doing well at the moment and should be encouraged were possible, I think its in these businesses that the future lies.

So an over-funded public organisation which pays its staff over inflated wages, is leaving the city (Yes, I'm on about the BBC,If you didn't know) and your against this happening but a college which is trying to reduce its need to be public funded and to be self funded whilst at the same time training people to help better the country and you slate it. I'd take the latter any day.
Social enterprises like the bistro are doing well at the moment and should be encouraged were possible, I think its in these businesses that the future lies.markjoe

Andy2010 wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&amp;A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon &quot;growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.

God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.

Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves.

Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.

[quote][p][bold]Parz[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon "growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.[/p][/quote]God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.[/p][/quote]Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves.
Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.Andy2010

I look forward to trying this - not only will it be a welcome addition to the usual curry houses and oriental buffets (with an amazing view!) it will be providing opportunities for training to the youth of bradford. Who cares if it benefits from reduced rates - it's another example of a creative use of prestige units which would otherwise remain empty. Good luck to all involved!

I look forward to trying this - not only will it be a welcome addition to the usual curry houses and oriental buffets (with an amazing view!) it will be providing opportunities for training to the youth of bradford. Who cares if it benefits from reduced rates - it's another example of a creative use of prestige units which would otherwise remain empty. Good luck to all involved!Stanglienne

Andy2010 wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&amp;A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon &quot;growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.

God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.

Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves. Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.

True, one coffee shop is not going to solve Bradford's problems. But from many strokes of a small axe, do mighty oaks fall (or something like that). This one business is not going to make a dent, but if more small businesses like this start to move in, it get's the ball rolling. It has to start somewhere.

My annoyance isn't neccesarily at you, just the general negativity on here. Good news is never met with any optimism.

[quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Parz[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon "growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.[/p][/quote]God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.[/p][/quote]Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves. Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.[/p][/quote]True, one coffee shop is not going to solve Bradford's problems. But from many strokes of a small axe, do mighty oaks fall (or something like that). This one business is not going to make a dent, but if more small businesses like this start to move in, it get's the ball rolling. It has to start somewhere.
My annoyance isn't neccesarily at you, just the general negativity on here. Good news is never met with any optimism.Parz

bradfordhope wrote:
The telegraph does get too excited about the slightest little thing, however this can only be good news for the city. Those who can't see the positives and wish to moan shouldn't bother posting. Your negative drivel isn't welcome here.

You speak for yourself! It is my human right to be a miserable old sod if I feel like it. This is Bradford you know, not Beverly Hills. It's grim up here.

[quote][p][bold]bradfordhope[/bold] wrote:
The telegraph does get too excited about the slightest little thing, however this can only be good news for the city. Those who can't see the positives and wish to moan shouldn't bother posting. Your negative drivel isn't welcome here.[/p][/quote]You speak for yourself! It is my human right to be a miserable old sod if I feel like it. This is Bradford you know, not Beverly Hills. It's grim up here.MontyLeMar

Andy2010 wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&amp;A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon &quot;growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.

God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.

Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves. Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.

True, one coffee shop is not going to solve Bradford's problems. But from many strokes of a small axe, do mighty oaks fall (or something like that). This one business is not going to make a dent, but if more small businesses like this start to move in, it get's the ball rolling. It has to start somewhere. My annoyance isn't neccesarily at you, just the general negativity on here. Good news is never met with any optimism.

Well I try to have optimism but when 3 businesses in the BD area close for every one that opens (and this is getting worse as in September stood at 3.9 businesses) then you must understand the spin that has been put onto this one little shop.

My point is that these sort of enterprise really dont contribute hardly anything to regeneration. The council needs to concentrate on "business" and not retail...once business is in place then retail naturally follows. This is the simplest of rules of any high street.

[quote][p][bold]Parz[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]Parz[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon "growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.[/p][/quote]God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.[/p][/quote]Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves. Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.[/p][/quote]True, one coffee shop is not going to solve Bradford's problems. But from many strokes of a small axe, do mighty oaks fall (or something like that). This one business is not going to make a dent, but if more small businesses like this start to move in, it get's the ball rolling. It has to start somewhere. My annoyance isn't neccesarily at you, just the general negativity on here. Good news is never met with any optimism.[/p][/quote]Well I try to have optimism but when 3 businesses in the BD area close for every one that opens (and this is getting worse as in September stood at 3.9 businesses) then you must understand the spin that has been put onto this one little shop.
My point is that these sort of enterprise really dont contribute hardly anything to regeneration. The council needs to concentrate on "business" and not retail...once business is in place then retail naturally follows. This is the simplest of rules of any high street.Andy2010

The T&A editorial contains the statement:
"Tellingly, the funding available was a major factor in the decision of the bistro, which is being opened by Bradford’s Forster Community College, not to set up in Leeds."

It's hardly a glowing recommendation on the regeneration of the City Centre that a Bradford College had to be subsidised not to set up in Leeds. From the editorial you'd think that Gordon Ramsay had set up shop in town!

The T&A editorial contains the statement:
"Tellingly, the funding available was a major factor in the decision of the bistro, which is being opened by Bradford’s Forster Community College, not to set up in Leeds."
It's hardly a glowing recommendation on the regeneration of the City Centre that a Bradford College had to be subsidised not to set up in Leeds. From the editorial you'd think that Gordon Ramsay had set up shop in town!angry bradfordian

RollandSmoke wrote:
Can't I have my Amsterdam style coffee shop in the Pavillion? I'll employ students on the cheap if that's what it takes.

Just open a normal coffee shop...in Bradford it will no doubt turn into an "Amsterdam" cafe anyway

[quote][p][bold]RollandSmoke[/bold] wrote:
Can't I have my Amsterdam style coffee shop in the Pavillion? I'll employ students on the cheap if that's what it takes.[/p][/quote]Just open a normal coffee shop...in Bradford it will no doubt turn into an "Amsterdam" cafe anywayAndy2010

Andy2010 wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&amp;A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon &quot;growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.

God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.

Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves. Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.

True, one coffee shop is not going to solve Bradford's problems. But from many strokes of a small axe, do mighty oaks fall (or something like that). This one business is not going to make a dent, but if more small businesses like this start to move in, it get's the ball rolling. It has to start somewhere. My annoyance isn't neccesarily at you, just the general negativity on here. Good news is never met with any optimism.

Well I try to have optimism but when 3 businesses in the BD area close for every one that opens (and this is getting worse as in September stood at 3.9 businesses) then you must understand the spin that has been put onto this one little shop. My point is that these sort of enterprise really dont contribute hardly anything to regeneration. The council needs to concentrate on "business" and not retail...once business is in place then retail naturally follows. This is the simplest of rules of any high street.

Again, a fair point. And I won't argue with you on figures, would seem you have more info than I do. I know it's a bit of a trickle in and a flood out at the moment, but then that's precisely my point. You can't blame the T&A for wanting to show a little enthusiasm at what little good news we have at the moment. It’s not all doom and gloom!

On a side note, it’s nice to have a proper conversation with someone on here for once, instead of the usual arguing that comes from the forums many trolls!

[quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote:
[quote][p][bold]Parz[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]Parz[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]Andy2010[/bold] wrote: So the BBC effectively deserts Bradford and yet the T&A choose to lead with some cr4ppy little coffee shop opening and try to put a positive spin on this using the marketing jargon "growth zone" which in real english means "area no-one wants to open a business in" I give it a year max.[/p][/quote]God you're cheerful aren't you. You want to have a wander past Smorgersbord (I've no idea if that's spelled correctly) which opened in the old Food Weighouse. I can't remember the last time I walked past and it wasn't doing good trade. Businesses like this are doing well at the moment, and we should be happy to see a new business set up. Fair enough it's run by a local college, but would you rather see that or an empty unit? Cheer up. Good luck to them, I'll pop in on my lunch one day and see what it's like.[/p][/quote]Nothing about being cheerful...my fears for this business come from dealing with other numerous enterprises like this one that I have had to sort the aftermath of them closing in droves. Like you say I applaud any new business and creation of jobs but my point here is that this little enterprise doesnt even put the slightest dent in the problems Bradford has and the "Growth Zone" is a just a marketing term for above as stated.[/p][/quote]True, one coffee shop is not going to solve Bradford's problems. But from many strokes of a small axe, do mighty oaks fall (or something like that). This one business is not going to make a dent, but if more small businesses like this start to move in, it get's the ball rolling. It has to start somewhere. My annoyance isn't neccesarily at you, just the general negativity on here. Good news is never met with any optimism.[/p][/quote]Well I try to have optimism but when 3 businesses in the BD area close for every one that opens (and this is getting worse as in September stood at 3.9 businesses) then you must understand the spin that has been put onto this one little shop. My point is that these sort of enterprise really dont contribute hardly anything to regeneration. The council needs to concentrate on "business" and not retail...once business is in place then retail naturally follows. This is the simplest of rules of any high street.[/p][/quote]Again, a fair point. And I won't argue with you on figures, would seem you have more info than I do. I know it's a bit of a trickle in and a flood out at the moment, but then that's precisely my point. You can't blame the T&A for wanting to show a little enthusiasm at what little good news we have at the moment. It’s not all doom and gloom!
On a side note, it’s nice to have a proper conversation with someone on here for once, instead of the usual arguing that comes from the forums many trolls!Parz

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
The T&amp;A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.

Very true, the bbc want to save 1.4million,yet they pay one man 500,000 to leave even though they weren't contracted to do so. It's quite clear people shouldn't be paying for the licence anymore.

[quote][p][bold]Thee Voice of Reason[/bold] wrote:
The T&A propaganda machine is in full flow. Comments allowed here on a small business yet you can't comment on the BBC's decision to leave the City and smash another nail into the Media museum's coffin it seems. Visitors down, staff cuts and now the BBC jumping ship.[/p][/quote]Very true, the bbc want to save 1.4million,yet they pay one man 500,000 to leave even though they weren't contracted to do so. It's quite clear people shouldn't be paying for the licence anymore.ANY WHERE BUT HERE

After reading some interesting comments in regards to the above article, it's clear a lot of people have strong views on the city and its development, my passion is and always will be about Bradford, we have a lot to do to make our city a beacon of the north, But I'm certain we will get there, this is a step I the right direction, giving support to people in the city to bridge the gap to employment is nothing but amazing and we will certainly be supporting the venture, let's hope this has a snow ball effect to local and entrepreneur people looking to start up new businesses,

After reading some interesting comments in regards to the above article, it's clear a lot of people have strong views on the city and its development, my passion is and always will be about Bradford, we have a lot to do to make our city a beacon of the north, But I'm certain we will get there, this is a step I the right direction, giving support to people in the city to bridge the gap to employment is nothing but amazing and we will certainly be supporting the venture, let's hope this has a snow ball effect to local and entrepreneur people looking to start up new businesses,Fbdbfd

johnhem wrote:
won't have long to wait for the majoe headline in the T&amp;A, BANANA SPLITS. another cafe/bistro closes.

I think what you meant to say was that you can't wait for such a headline so you can come on here and gloat over the event ;-)

[quote][p][bold]johnhem[/bold] wrote:
won't have long to wait for the majoe headline in the T&A, BANANA SPLITS. another cafe/bistro closes.[/p][/quote]I think what you meant to say was that you can't wait for such a headline so you can come on here and gloat over the event ;-)webess

Wow, how negative are these comments. There is a reason Bradford has a bad name and its the discord in the community, negativity like some of these comments makes matters worse, show some support.

Why would big business move to the city, why would families and local businesses set up in a city where there is such a careless attitude.
Bradford has so much potential but trashing projects like these means there will never be any growth which is so sad, especially for the people who put their heart and soul into making something good in a community that desperately needs a heart.

Wow, how negative are these comments. There is a reason Bradford has a bad name and its the discord in the community, negativity like some of these comments makes matters worse, show some support.
Why would big business move to the city, why would families and local businesses set up in a city where there is such a careless attitude.
Bradford has so much potential but trashing projects like these means there will never be any growth which is so sad, especially for the people who put their heart and soul into making something good in a community that desperately needs a heart.communitydifference